Creatively speaking,
R.I. is pretty healthy

Last week’s report from the R.I. Citizens for the Arts provided some welcome news. It appears that the creative economy is alive and well in the Ocean State.

Of course, we knew that already. From the state’s vibrant theater scene, to its accomplished visual artists and talented architects and designers, Rhode Island and its citizens have been enriched by the creative folks in our midst for years.

The report, titled “The Creative Industries in Rhode Island 2012,” was put together by Americans for the Arts based on Dun & Bradstreet data in 23 categories, tracking business and job growth from 2007 through 2012.

In that period, the number of creative-industry businesses increased 52 percent, while the number of jobs grew 13 percent. According to the report, these enterprises represent nearly 5 percent of businesses in Rhode Island while employing nearly 2.5 percent of the state’s workers.

Keep that in mind the next time you see an Open Studio event or consider attending a play, concert or gallery opening. The fabric Rhode Island has creatively woven throughout the state is worth admiring up close.

In the June 6, 2012 issue, we said the creative economy report came from the R.I. State Council for the Arts, it actually came from R.I. Citizens for the Arts.

Get the most up-to-date data on the Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts business community from the PBN List Center. Download and purchase PBN Lists as well as the complete Book of Lists in Excel format.